Reimagining Norfolk Island's Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area
Norfolk Island is significant not only for its convict heritage, but also for the distinctive culture and language of its Pitcairn Settler descendants. Pitcairn Settler heritage has long been downplayed in the presentation and interpretation of Norfolk Island’s UNESCO World Heritage Listed Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area (KAVHA). The Reimagining KAVHA project explores the role living heritage sites play in resisting or reinforcing cultural injustices faced by colonial subjects. In particular, the project seeks to generate new understandings about Pitcairn Settler descendants’ struggles for recognition and self-determination. The research team will be working closely with Pitcairn Settler descendants to co-create public history outputs – including zines and a self-guided heritage walk – and a policy report that will provide recommendations for enhancing the visibility of Pitcairner heritage in KAVHA. Community engagement activities will support Pitcairn Settler descendants in their efforts to articulate the value of their heritage and the importance of preserving their unique culture into the future.
Researcher(s): Professor Sarah Baker (Griffith University) and Dr Zelmarie Cantillon (Western Sydney University)
Funding: Australian Research Council, Special Research Initiative for Australian Society, History and Culture
Period: 2021–2024
Project Website: REIMAGINING KAVHA (opens in a new window)
Contact: Dr Zelmarie Cantillon
